Harry Potter and the Cursed Child: PETA ‘relieved’ as live owls dropped from play

The producers of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, the stage play that debuted in London’s West End this week, have confirmed that live owls will not be used in any future performances.

During Tuesday evening’s preview, a barn owl named Sprocket made her stage debut, flying above the theatre audience to deliver a letter. However, instead of returning to her handlers, the bird escaped into the auditorium.

Producers issued a statement on Thursday saying. "The production of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child is currently in its preview stage, with the process designed to allow the creative team time to rehearse changes or explore specific scenes further before the play’s official opening.

“As part of this process, earlier this week the decision was made not to feature live owls in any aspect of the production moving forward."

Animal right organisation PETA applauded the decision to withdraw the owl from the play, saying in a statement: ”We contacted the play’s director and production company … to explain that wild animals, such as owls, are not actors and should never be forced to perform. And we were delighted when they got back to us to say that they’ve decided not to use live owls in any future performances.

“This is a huge relief for all Harry Potter fans who care about animals. Owls are shy, sensitive and utterly unsuited to being put on display in a hot, noisy theatre, night after night. Treating them like props goes against every message of respect and kindness expressed in JK Rowling’s much-loved books.

“The West End offers many innovative stage productions such as War Horse and The Lion King that create breathtaking effects without exploiting animals. It’s great news that Harry Potter and the Cursed Child will be following in this tradition of creative – and compassionate – entertainment.”